Public Statements

Issue Position: Working For Agriculture

Issue Position

Congressman Salazar is working in Congress to help ensure that farmers and ranchers can continue to stay on the land and provide the safest food in the world. John knows this because he is a sixth generation farmer and rancher from the San Luis Valley of Colorado. John farms with his wife and sons, where they raise potatoes, wheat, hay, and cattle. He personally understands the many challenges that Colorado's agriculture producers face every day.

Congressman Salazar knows that agriculture is the backbone of our economy. He believes that not only can agriculture supply our nation with food, but also supply our nation with clean energy.

Since going to Congress, John has fought to ensure that America's farmers and ranchers are adequately represented. He voted against unnecessary and harmful cuts to agriculture programs when a Republican budget plan was considered in the House Agriculture Committee. John understands the budget concerns of our country, but does not think balancing the nation's budget should come at the expense of the American farmer and rancher. He has also fought for Colorado's ranchers when it comes to protecting our trading borders. He opposed the opening of Canada's borders for beef trade even though Canada has not proven their beef is safe. John also introduced legislation to resume beef trade with Japan. The U.S. agricultural community has proven time and time again that their product is the safest in the world, and it is time for other countries to recognize this.

Congressman Salazar also believes that U.S. agriculture can be part of the answer to our nation's energy problems. Through the increased development of biofuels and wind and solar power, the nation can reduce its dependence on foreign energy and unsustainable fossil fuels. By incorporating agriculture into the nation's energy supply we can become more diverse and therefore better handle the volatility of the energy sector. Promoting renewable energy it is not only good energy policy, but also good agriculture policy.